- Canine Cottages encourages dog owners to follow the Countryside Code when walking their dogs this spring.
- Dr Emma shares expert advice on keeping dogs safe, under control, and respectful of wildlife and livestock.
- Dog owners are reminded to clean up after their pets and stick to designated paths to protect the countryside.
As the days grow longer and spring nears closer many dog owners will be heading out for countryside walks with their canine companion by their side.; in fact, searches for ‘nice dog walk near me’ increased +5000% over the past 30 days.*
However, with the nearing of lambing season, and as routes get busier it’s important that dog owners follow the Countryside Code. With this in mind Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages shares advice and top tips for keeping dogs safe, respecting wildlife, and ensuring an enjoyable experience for all countryside visitors.
Dogs must be on a lead no longer than 2 meters between March 1 and July 31
“Ensuring your dog remains under control is essential. If you are not confident in their recall, keeping them on a lead is a must. Dogs can easily become lost, chase wildlife, or even get stuck in rabbit or badger holes. Long lines and extender leads are great options for giving dogs freedom while maintaining control.”
Additionally, even dogs with perfect recall must always be kept on a lead around livestock. This is especially important during spring when lambs and calves are present. It is a legal requirement that dogs do not disturb livestock, and on Open Access land, dogs must be kept on a lead between 1st March and 31st July—even if no livestock is visible.
If you encounter livestock or horses and feel threatened, it is safer to let your dog off the lead rather than risk injury to yourself. Your dog will likely find a way to safety on its own.
Horses are also common in rural areas, and dogs should be kept on a lead when encountering horse riders on roads or bridlepaths. Sudden movements or barking can startle horses, posing a danger to both rider and dog.
“Keeping your dog under effective control is one of the best ways to ensure their safety and prevent unnecessary stress for other animals and people. If you’re unsure, always opt
for a lead.”
Dog owners can be fined up to £1,000 for not cleaning up after their dogs
Dog owners should always adhere to countryside signs, stick to designated paths, and leave gates as they find them, especially when walking through fields with livestock.
Picking up after your dog is essential. Dog waste can spread disease to people, livestock, and wildlife. It is never acceptable to leave bags of dog poo behind, even if you intend to pick them up later. Always dispose of dog waste in a public bin or take it home if no bin is available. Using deodorised bags or containers can make it easier to carry.
Dog poo is not just unsightly—it can cause serious illnesses in livestock, wildlife, and even people. Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly.
The countryside, parks, and coastal areas are fantastic spaces to exercise dogs, but owners must be mindful of other users and wildlife. Always check local signs, as some areas may require dogs to be on a lead for all or part of the year, and some may have total bans except for assistance dogs.
Key Countryside Code Guidelines for Dog Walkers:
- Always keep dogs under control and within sight.
- Use a lead unless confident in your dog’s recall.
- Keep dogs on a lead near livestock and between 1st March and 31st July on Open Access land.
- Stick to designated paths and access areas.
- Pick up and properly dispose of dog waste.
- Prevent dogs from disturbing wildlife, livestock, horses, and other people.
- Leave gates as you find them.
- Follow signage regarding access and lead requirements.
By following these simple rules, dog owners can ensure the countryside remains a safe and welcoming space for all. Canine Cottages is committed to promoting responsible dog ownership and encourages everyone to enjoy their rural walks while respecting nature and the community.
If you’d like to find out more, please visit: www.caninecottages.co.uk
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